Does taking collagen treatments really help?

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We have collagen. We have a lot of it, because this protein is present in all structures of our anatomy: skin, tendons, cartilage, ligaments and tissues. It is most abundant in the human body; It represents between 30% and 35% of total body protein.

However, the older we get, the less we produce. Therefore dietary supplements and products based on collagen will improve the health of skin, nails and hair by “rejuvenating”. In any case, this is what many people specializing in beauty and wellness attest on social networks. But according to the Washington Post, “These claims are not supported by concrete evidence”

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Although there are many studies showing that collagen supplements increase skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles, their results are hit or miss, the journal explains. In fact, these investigations are based on anecdotal data, lack of evidence, or are funded by companies that sell these products.

Not dangerous but not useful

For example, some studies have shown that the supplement improves symptoms in people with osteoarthritis, a condition in which joint cartilage deteriorates. “But these studies have limitations, particularly with regard to associations with industries and short-term durations.”Details by Trisha Pasricha, author of the Washington Post article.

The bottom line is that collagen supplements are not dangerous to your health. They are made by extracting protein from animal tissues such as animal bones or fish skin. “But I’m generally wary of unnecessary or ineffective supplements”Pasricha writes.

If you still want to try the experiment, it is better to avoid creams because they do not penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, where collagen is needed. Powders or pills that are ingested would in theory be more effective.